Dental Terms
Root planing London
At Victoria Dental Centre, we understand the importance of maintaining optimal gum and periodontal health. Your gums play a crucial role in supporting your teeth and overall oral well-being. When periodontal issues arise, it's essential to address them promptly to ensure the longevity of your smile.
The Significance of Periodontal Health
Your gums are the foundation for healthy teeth. They help anchor your teeth securely in place and protect the sensitive tooth roots. However, when plaque and bacteria accumulate along the gumline and below it, periodontal problems can develop.
Periodontal (gum) disease typically progresses in stages:
- Gingivitis: The initial stage of gum disease is characterized by red, swollen gums that bleed easily, especially during brushing and flossing. Gingivitis is reversible with proper dental care.
- Periodontitis: Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis. This stage involves further gum deterioration, bone loss, and the formation of periodontal pockets, which can trap plaque and calculus (tartar).
If you're experiencing symptoms like bleeding gums, gum recession, or tooth mobility, it's crucial to seek professional care promptly. Victoria Dental Centre in London specializes in comprehensive periodontal care to help you achieve and maintain optimal gum health.
Scaling and Root Planing
One of the most common treatments for periodontal disease is scaling and root planing. This procedure involves:
- Scaling: Removal of calculus (tartar) and plaque from the tooth surfaces above and below the gumline.
- Root Planing: Smoothing the root surfaces to discourage bacteria adherence and promote gum reattachment.
Our experienced team uses a combination of sonic and hand instruments for this treatment. While sonic instruments efficiently remove larger deposits, hand instruments ensure thorough cleaning and bacterial removal from all tooth surfaces.
What to Expect
If extensive plaque and calculus removal is necessary, we will numb the area to ensure your comfort during the procedure. Some sensitivity and soreness may be experienced in the days following treatment, but over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate these symptoms.
We typically schedule a follow-up visit four weeks after treatment to evaluate your gum health's improvement. Afterward, regular check-ups every 3 to 6 months are essential to monitor your progress and maintain the present bone height around your teeth.
Contact Us for Periodontal Care
If you suspect gum disease or are in need of periodontal care, please don't hesitate to contact us at 519-432-0777. Our dedicated team led by Dr. Jegatha Thirugnanavel is committed to helping you achieve and maintain healthy gums and a beautiful smile. You can find us conveniently located at 339 Wellington Rd, Unit 105 Medcen in London, ON.
